Why so militant?

I should imagine that my atheism came as quite a shock to my religious friends, and yes I do still count you all as friends. Even more surprising is perhaps the militant stance that I have taken with it.

My militancy comes from several sources. First and foremost I think it comes from my character, as a Christian I was evangelical. I always looked for ways to share my faith and organised face to face evangelism in the town centre. Just as I had 'passion' for Christianity it should stand to reason that I have the same natural zeal for atheistic views. It is my character that makes me zealous not god.

Second I think is the realisation of the fact that there is no god. Should I simply sit back and let the religious evangelise their beliefs to others without challenge or alternative, or should I provide an alternative option. It is my ardent belief that I should provide another option. Let's be clear, I don't propose another faith or religion (of which there are thousands in the world). I propose the absence of religion, to call atheism a religion is like saying not collecting stamps is a hobby!

The false teachings of religion are harmful, some more than others. They limit the individual, society and potential of the human species as a whole.

Having people rely on prayer, a false hope that has been proven ineffective countless times under strict experimental conditions…which has also proven false in my own experience. Why wont god heal amputees?

Many Christians cherry pick from the bible, they only adhere to those things that are comfortable. Worse they dismiss parts of the old testament as they now live under a 'new' covenant in Jesus, but only so long as they don't need any part of it to support their beliefs. When they need the bits of the old testament to support their beliefs or statements, they start to cherry pick again.

In addition, teaching children that they are all unworthy, dirty and sinful from birth! Really, this is a cruel and repugnant practice. Children are beautiful innocent and priceless, they have enormous potential that is hampered by the controls of religious belief. They don’t choose to be a Christian; they are indoctrinated and guided down a path of someone else’s beliefs. Often they are shown only one side, just the religious side. This is no choice, its forced slavery.

But there is a difference in my option. I don’t want followers, disciples or worshipers. All I want to offer is the chance for an individual to see and acknowledge a different perspective and then make up their own mind. Let me be clear…DON’T FOLLOW ME, make your own way in this short but exciting life. Free yourself from the fear of a non-existent eternal damnation….start to live!

Your zeal is appreciated but the road to 'sky fairy' enlightenment is a long one for most. Speak your mind but try to retain your composure, tact, and diplomacy. It does get frustrating I must admit. Sometimes I want to just speak my innermost thoughts to someone and relay just how foolish and irrational theism is. But this accomplishes nothing but create a stumbling block to their possible awakening. Once they become defensive and close their mind to you the battle is lost.

I prefer "calling atheism a religion is like calling bald a hair colour."

Back on topic: In my experience of debating the religious in person, I find the following to be the most effective way of talking to them: You should always try to maintain composure when talking to the religious...ALWAYS... unless they are complete dicks of course... Concentrate on conveying your standpoint clearly, directly, and without emotional baggage or appeals. Know how to cut to the heart of a discussion, without being sidetracked by irrelevant factors. Keep your cool, especially when you sense someone trying to provoke you.

Don't expect immediate change. No one will ever say, "Gosh, you're right!" Make your point, plant the seed, and let it go. Give them time to mull it over and start thinking they changed their mind themselves. We can seem petty and reactionary, or we can seem progressive and selfless. It's harder to argue against the latter : )